Steaming Veal Shoulder Perfection: A Guide To Tender Meat

Veal shoulder is a versatile and flavourful cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting and braising. Cooking veal shoulder in a steam oven can be an excellent way to achieve a juicy and tender result. In this article, we will explore the steps involved in preparing and cooking veal shoulder using a steam oven, as well as providing tips for choosing the perfect cut of meat and serving suggestions to impress your guests. Whether you're planning a festive feast or a cosy family dinner, cooking veal shoulder in a steam oven can be a delicious option to elevate your culinary creations.

Choosing the right veal shoulder

Look for Well-Marbled Meat:

Veal shoulder with well-distributed flecks of fat or marbling adds richness and tenderness to your dish. This marbling will melt during the cooking process, infusing the meat with flavour and moisture.

Opt for Pinkish Colour:

Choose a veal shoulder cut that has a pinkish hue, as this indicates the meat's freshness. Avoid cuts with discolouration or a dull appearance.

Prioritize Animal Welfare and Sustainability:

Select veal from reputable sources that prioritize animal welfare and sustainable farming methods. Humanely raised veal is becoming more widely available, and choosing such sources ensures not only ethical practices but also a higher-quality product.

Consider the Weight:

The weight of the veal shoulder will impact the cooking time and the number of servings. A larger cut will take longer to cook and will yield more servings. Choose a weight that aligns with your desired serving quantity and time constraints.

Check for Connective Tissue:

The shoulder area of veal contains more connective tissue than other parts, which can make it tougher. Look for cuts with minimal connective tissue to ensure a more tender result. Alternatively, you can opt for slow-cooking methods, such as braising or roasting, to help break down the connective tissue during the cooking process.

By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to choosing the right veal shoulder for your steam oven cooking endeavours. Remember to also consider the quality and reputation of your meat supplier to ensure the best results.

Preparing the veal shoulder

Firstly, remove the veal shoulder from its packaging and use paper towels to pat it dry. This step is important as it helps to ensure even browning when the meat is cooked. Next, season the meat generously with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavours. You can also add other seasonings or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to further boost the taste. Allow the veal shoulder to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step helps to ensure even cooking and brings the meat closer to room temperature before it hits the heat of the oven.

If you want to get creative, you can try making a stuffing for your veal shoulder. To do this, mix together fresh breadcrumbs, dried fruit like apricots and cranberries, diced onion, minced garlic, olive oil, and your choice of dried spices. Press this mixture into one side of the veal shoulder, then fold the other side over and secure it with kitchen twine.

Now your veal shoulder is ready for searing. Place a large pot on the stove over high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Carefully place the veal shoulder into the hot oil and sear it on all sides until a golden brown crust forms. Use tongs to hold the meat in place and prevent it from rolling over. This step adds flavour and helps to seal in the juices. Once the meat is seared, set it aside and keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Preparing your veal shoulder properly is the key to success when cooking this delicious cut of meat. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.

Braising the veal shoulder

Step 1: Preparation

Start by selecting the right veal shoulder cut. Look for well-marbled meat with a pinkish hue, indicating richness, tenderness, and freshness. Opt for veal from reputable sources that adhere to ethical and sustainable practices. Before cooking, trim any excess fat, pat the meat dry, and season generously with salt and pepper. You can also marinate the veal shoulder in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to enhance its flavour.

Step 2: Searing

When you're ready to cook, heat some oil in a large, oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the veal shoulder on all sides until it develops a golden-brown crust. This step adds flavour and helps lock in the juices.

Step 3: Aromatics and Liquid

Next, add aromatics like chopped onions, garlic, and herbs to the pot. Sauté them until they soften and release their flavours. Then, pour in a generous amount of liquid, such as beef broth, veal or chicken stock, or wine. The liquid should cover about two-thirds of the meat. You can also add other ingredients like bay leaves, lemon, or balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavour.

Step 4: Braising

Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven. Braise the veal shoulder at a low temperature, typically between 225ºF and 350ºF. The cooking time will depend on the size of the cut, but it usually takes several hours or until the meat is fork-tender. During the braising process, the veal shoulder will slowly cook in the steam and liquid, ensuring it remains moist and tender.

Step 5: Resting and Serving

Once the veal shoulder is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavourful final product. Finally, slice or shred the meat and serve it with your choice of sides. Don't forget to drizzle the meat with the delicious braising juices for added flavour!

Braising veal shoulder is a simple yet effective way to transform this cut of meat into a mouthwatering dish. With a little time and patience, you'll be rewarded with tender, juicy veal that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Roasting the veal shoulder

Roasting is an excellent method for cooking veal shoulder if you prefer a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect roast:

Preparation

Start by selecting a good-quality veal shoulder with well-marbled meat, which will add richness and tenderness to your dish. Look for meat that is pinkish in colour, indicating freshness. Before you begin cooking, remove the veal shoulder from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the meat generously with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavours. Allow the veal shoulder to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Cooking

Preheat your oven to a high temperature, approximately 425°F (220°C). Place the seasoned veal shoulder on a roasting rack over a baking sheet. This will ensure even cooking and allow excess fat to drip away. Roast the meat for about 20 minutes to develop a golden crust.

Adjusting the Temperature

After achieving the desired crust, reduce the oven temperature to around 325°F (160°C). This lower temperature will ensure that the interior of the meat cooks through without drying out the exterior. Continue roasting until the internal temperature of the veal shoulder reaches your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you prefer your meat more well-done, cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for medium.

Resting and Serving

Once the veal shoulder has reached the ideal internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender roast. After resting, you can carve and serve the veal shoulder. Consider pairing it with roasted vegetables, a flavorful sauce, or using it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Serving suggestions

Veal shoulder is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your steam-cooked veal shoulder:

Roasted Vegetables

Complement the juicy veal with roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, or broccoli florets. Cut them into large, chunky pieces and cook them in your steam oven for a flavoursome and healthy side dish.

Hearty Stews

If you don't want to serve a large roast, cut the veal shoulder into small pieces or cubes and make a hearty stew. This is a great option for leftovers, as the meat will be tender and full of flavour. Add some root vegetables and a thick gravy for a comforting meal.

Sandwiches or Wraps

Shred the cooked veal and use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. This is a great option for a casual lunch or picnic. Add some crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a tangy sauce to complement the meat.

Flavourful Sauce

Pair your veal with a flavourful sauce, such as a mushroom or red wine reduction. The sauce will enhance the taste of the meat and make the dish more juicy and appetising. You can also serve it with a side of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.

Salads

For a lighter option, serve the veal shoulder sliced with a fresh salad. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a heartier grain salad with roasted vegetables would both pair well with the meat.

International Flavours

Experiment with international flavours like a Moroccan veal shoulder tagine, incorporating the spices of North Africa. Or try a classic Italian dish like Ossobuco, showcasing the regional cooking of Italy.

Frequently asked questions